How to Create Print Ready Files

The digital files must contain all the necessary specifications for optimal printing without the need for any additional adjustments or changes. If a print shop has to fix files before printing there may be an additional cost. Preparing print ready files alleviates frustration, saves time, and is much more cost effective.

Speak with your printer beforehand and ask them what they need. What file type, image resolution, and color palette is required in preparing print ready files. Every shop has different specifications depending on their equipment. There’s no point in creating print ready files until you have the correct specs from the printer you will be working with.

3. Raster vs. Vector Images for Print Ready Files

Raster images are based on pixels (Photoshop files). Vector images are based on mathematics (Illustrator files). Vector image scaling is intuitive so you can scale your image to any size without distortion. Raster images cannot be scaled so be sure to use the appropriate image type for your project. Ask your printer what image type is needed before preparing your print ready files.

4. Photo Sizing & Resolution

Unfortunately, you can’t make a bad photo better (or a small photo bigger). For example, a 640 x 480 pixel photograph cannot be scaled, so it’s not possible to stretch a small pixel photo to fit a large banner. When preparing print ready files, make sure that your photos are scanned to the finished size (the size they will be when printed). The photos should also be optimized to at least 300 dpi or higher. Ask us if you need help understanding photo sizing and resolution to create print ready files. Call PRI Graphics in Phoenix toll free, at 1-877-409-8889 or send us an email.

5. Choosing Print Sheet Sizes

With today’s digital printing techniques, we can now print on many different types of paper, including different paper sizes and weights. Printed sheet sizes are determined by the finished size of the document. But there are ways to save on printing costs. For instance, two 8 1/2” x 11” printed documents (no bleed) can be printed together on one 11” x 17” sheet.

If you still have questions about how to create print ready files, you can talk to our printing experts at PRI Graphics at anytime at 602-393-3131. You can also find information in our PDF file entitled How to Place an Order and Upload Files.

About the Author

The print professionals at PRI Graphics in Phoenix and Mesa Arizona regularly write about digital printing, large format printing, CAD printing, and other custom printing services. Contact us or check back often for new ideas on how our Phoenix printing company can help show off your business!